Talk With History

The WW2 Liberation of Saint Mère Église: A D-Day Story

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Episode notes

🎙️

We dive Jenn's visit to St Mere Eglise and the dramatic WW2 events of June 5th and 6th, 1944, as paratroopers from the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions secured the French town of Saint Mère Église during D-Day.

We explore the challenges faced by the troops, including navigational errors and strong winds, that scattered the paratroopers. Highlighting the bravery of Private John Steele, who famously dangled from the town church steeple, this episode also covers the aftermath of the town's liberation and its historical significance.

Furthermore, we discuss the broader strategic implications of D-Day and subsequent operations that led to the liberation of France.

🎥 Video from St Mere Eglis

📍St Mere Eglise

00:00 The Calm Before the Storm

02:21 Introduction

02:56 Supporting the Podcast

04:45 Exploring Saint Mère Église

05:22 Historical Significance and Personal Stories

07:44 Challenges Faced by Paratroopers

11:03 The Legacy of Saint Mère Église

16:28 The Airborne Museum

21:44 The significance of Normandy and movement to France

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